Recommendations

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

All law schools require at least two letters of recommendation (LORs); some schools allow more than two. Check the schools’ individual websites to find out how many are allowed. If a school allows only two LORs, you should submit two strong academic recommendations (from professors). If a school allows more than two, it is fine to ask non-academic recommenders, but in addition to, not instead of the academic ones.

Whom should I ask to write LORs for me?

• You should have at least two academic recommenders. These should be professors who know you well and can speak not only to your academic achievements but also to your personal qualities. You want the professor to be able to say more than “Ms. Jones is a good student who earned a high grade in my class.” It is perfectly fine for both of your recommendations to come from professors; in fact, that’s often the case for students going straight to law school from undergrad. Some schools accept up to three LORs, and if you have someone who can give you a professional reference (a former employer, perhaps), that can be a nice addition to your academic references.

When should I contact potential recommenders?

• By August of your senior year (assuming you are applying for law school admission the following fall), you should speak with the persons you would like to recommend you (preferably in person) to make sure they are willing and able to do so. This timeframe allows the recommenders plenty of time to complete the LORs before the October law school application period gets underway. It is helpful to give your recommenders a current resume and a draft of your personal statement (if you have one ready) to assist them in writing the LOR. (Be sure to send each of your recommenders a personal note of thanks after he or she has completed the recommendation.)

How do I submit the LORs?

• You will submit your LORs through the Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Once you are registered for the CAS, you will list the names and e-mail addresses of each of your recommenders. LSAC will then send each recommender a form to complete, and then the recommender will upload the completed form and the recommendation directly to the CAS. LSAC makes a notation in your file when each recommendation is received. (You can also download the form yourself and give it to your recommender.) LSAC then sends the LORs as part of your file to each law school you apply to.

How do I contact LSAC if there is a problem with my LORs?

• You can contact a Candidate Service Representative at 215-968-1001 (press 0 to speak to a representative) Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 7:00 pm (ET) between September and February; and Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:45 pm (ET) between March and August. According to LSAC, the busiest call day is Monday; the site suggests that you avoid delays by calling later in the week. Be sure you have your LSAC account number available when you call.